Tech Briefs - June 2019 - Vol. 43 No. 6

Overview

The June 2019 issue of Tech Briefs, Volume 43, No. 6, presents a comprehensive overview of advancements in technology, particularly focusing on motion design and sensor technology. This edition features a variety of articles that explore innovative products, design considerations for smart factories, and applications of cutting-edge materials and systems.

Key Features

1. Products of Tomorrow: The issue opens with a section dedicated to emerging technologies that promise to shape the future. This includes discussions on stretchable, rubbery semiconductors, which are gaining traction for their potential applications in flexible electronics and wearable devices.

2. Smart Factory Design: A significant feature article outlines the key factors to consider when designing a smart factory. It emphasizes the integration of advanced technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), automation, and data analytics to enhance efficiency and productivity. The article discusses the importance of creating adaptable systems that can respond to changing manufacturing needs.

3. NASA Spinoff: The magazine highlights a NASA spinoff, focusing on the Space Station Fitness System. This system showcases how technologies developed for space can be adapted for use on Earth, particularly in fitness and rehabilitation.

Solutions and Innovations

The issue is rich with solutions across various domains:

• Electrical/Electronics: Innovations such as running an LED in reverse to cool future computers and using laser metal printing to enhance cooling in computer chips are discussed. These technologies aim to improve thermal management in electronic devices, which is crucial for performance and longevity.

• Optics: The magazine features advancements in optics, including an all-fiber, optically controlled optical switch and systems for correcting optical reflectance measurements. These innovations are vital for improving communication systems and enhancing imaging technologies.

• Mechanical & Fluid Systems: The issue covers a joining gun that bonds metal and plastic in seconds, showcasing advancements in manufacturing processes. Additionally, a smart, soft back orthosis that utilizes real-time motion detection is highlighted, demonstrating the intersection of healthcare and technology.

• Power & Energy: The magazine discusses a wood-based technology that generates electricity from heat, along with a one-pot bioconversion process for distiller’s grains to advanced biofuels. These innovations reflect a growing trend towards sustainable energy solutions.

Application Briefs

The application briefs section provides concise insights into various technologies, including:

• Graphene-Silicon Devices: These devices are explored for their potential in optoelectronics applications, which could revolutionize how we approach light-based technologies.

• Single-Photon Detectors: The development of single-photon detectors for potential encryption and sensing applications is discussed, highlighting advancements in secure communication technologies.

• Micro UV Aerosol Detector: This innovative detector is designed for environmental monitoring, showcasing the application of sensor technology in public health and safety.

Departments and Additional Content

The magazine also includes several departments that enhance the reader's experience:

• UpFront: This section provides a quick overview of the latest news and trends in technology, setting the stage for the detailed articles that follow.

• Q&A: A question-and-answer segment addresses common inquiries related to technology and engineering, providing expert insights.

• 5 Ws: This department offers a concise breakdown of important topics, ensuring readers grasp the essential information quickly.

• Advertisers Index: The issue concludes with an index of advertisers, showcasing companies that are at the forefront of technology and innovation.

Conclusion

Overall, the June 2019 issue of Tech Briefs serves as a valuable resource for engineers, designers, and technology enthusiasts. It not only highlights the latest advancements in motion design and sensor technology but also emphasizes the importance of integrating these innovations into practical applications. The focus on smart factory design reflects a broader trend towards automation and efficiency in manufacturing, while the diverse range of topics covered ensures that readers are well-informed about the future of technology. This issue is a testament to the ongoing evolution of engineering and technology, providing insights that are crucial for staying ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.